Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets

Name: Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened, not pumpkin pie filling); 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or cream cheese; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 85 grams goat cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: September 29, 2025

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Introduction to Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets

As the leaves start to turn, the air gets that crisp bite of autumn, and I can’t help but think about one of my favorite treats: Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets. These delightful little bites bring together the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin and the creamy tang of goat cheese. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, they’re not just easy to whip up but also make any gathering feel warm and inviting. Trust me, once you taste these tartlets, they’ll become a seasonal staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets

Let me tell you, these Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets are a total game-changer! They’re quick to prepare, taking only 20 minutes of prep time. The combination of flavors? Just heavenly! You’ll impress your friends, family, or even yourself with these little wonders. Plus, they’re a breeze to make ahead of time, so you can simply pop them in the oven when your guests arrive. Trust me, they won’t last long!

Ingredients for Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets

Gathering the right ingredients for your Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:

Puff Pastry: This flaky, buttery crust is the perfect foundation for our tartlets. You can find it in the freezer section of most grocery stores. Simply thaw before use!
Pumpkin Purée: Pot for unsweetened pumpkin purée, not the sweetened pumpkin pie filling. It gives a natural sweetness and a creamy texture, perfect for balancing the cheese.
Greek Yogurt or Cream Cheese: Both options add creaminess. Greek yogurt gives a tangy twist, while cream cheese brings extra richness. Choose based on your preference!
Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice ties the flavors together, enhancing the earthy notes of pumpkin. A must-have in fall recipes!
Ground Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth and that cozy holiday vibe. Just a touch is needed to make a big impact!
Egg: A lightly beaten egg helps seal the pastry edges and gives a lovely golden finish when baked.
Goat Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of pumpkin.
Honey: Drizzling honey atop the tartlets adds a lovely sweetness and a touch of elegance. You can swap in maple syrup for a unique flavor if you’d like!
Fresh Thyme Leaves: These fragrant little leaves brighten up the dish. Feel free to use other herbs like rosemary for a different twist!

For exact measurements and additional details, you can check at the bottom of this article where I’ve included a handy print-friendly version. Happy cooking!

How to Make Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making these scrumptious Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets! I promise each step is simple and rewarding. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your tartlets bake perfectly. While the oven is warming up, line a baking tray with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Cut the Puff Pastry

Once your puff pastry is thawed, roll it out on a clean surface. Then, cut it into 12 equal squares or circles. Place these neatly on the baking tray, leaving a little space between each one. They’re going to puff up wonderfully, so give them some room to shine!

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling

Time to whip up that luscious pumpkin filling! In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, Greek yogurt or cream cheese, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling is the heart of your tartlets and oh-so-delicious!

Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets

Now for the fun part—assembling! Take a small dollop of your pumpkin mixture and place it in the center of each pastry. Don’t be shy; you want them stuffed with flavor! Next, brush the edges of the pastry lightly with beaten egg. This will give it that gorgeous golden touch when it bakes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the baking tray into the preheated oven. Bake the tartlets for 15 to 18 minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want them puffed up and golden brown—like little pillows of joy coming out of the oven! The aroma will make your kitchen smell like fall.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

As soon as they’re out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top of each tartlet. The heat will melt it slightly, making it even creamier! Drizzle with honey and scatter fresh thyme leaves over the tops. Now, they’re ready to steal the show at your next gathering!

Tips for Success

Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed; otherwise, it won’t puff up as beautifully.
For extra crunch, consider sprinkling chopped nuts on top before baking.
Mix the filling a few hours ahead of time to let the flavors meld together.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs; basil or sage works wonderfully too!
Serve them warm for a delightful eating experience; they’re perfect fresh out of the oven!

Equipment Needed

Baking Tray: A standard sheet tray works great. You can also use a pizza stone for an even bake!
Parchment Paper: Essential for non-stick baking—silicone mats are a good alternative.
Mixing Bowl: Any size is fine. A measuring cup can double as one for smaller quantities.
Pastry Brush: For brushing egg wash. A clean paintbrush can substitute in a pinch!
Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut the puff pastry into shapes. Scissors could work too!

Variations

Cheese Swap: Try substituting goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Nutty Delight: Add walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and depth. They also bring a wonderful fall flavor.
Seasonal Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice along with the cinnamon and nutmeg for a spicier kick!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make these tartlets suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.
Mini Quiches: Transform these tartlets into mini quiches by adding beaten eggs to the pumpkin filling for extra protein!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a salad: These tartlets go wonderfully with a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
Try a warm drink: Serve alongside warm apple cider or a spiced chai to enhance the fall flavors.
Presentation: Arrange the tartlets on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs for an eye-catching display.
Ideal as finger food: Perfect for holiday gatherings, they invite grazing and mingling between guests!

FAQs about Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets

Can I make Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t like goat cheese?
No problem at all! You can easily swap it for feta or ricotta cheese. Both offer a creamy texture without the tang of goat cheese.

Are these tartlets suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets are vegetarian! They contain no meat, making them a great option for veggie lovers.

Can I freeze the tartlets?
Sure! You can freeze unbaked tartlets. Just keep them in an airtight container, and bake them from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I serve with the tartlets?
These tartlets pair beautifully with a light salad or a warm soup, balancing the rich flavors with something refreshing.

Final Thoughts

As you take your first bite of these Mini Pumpkin Goat Cheese Tartlets, I want you to feel that warm fuzziness that comes with fall. The delightful combination of pumpkin and creamy goat cheese is like a cozy hug from the inside out. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings joy and comfort to any table. Plus, the cheerful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have family and friends flocking to see what’s cooking. Embrace this culinary adventure, and let the flavors of autumn surround you with each delicious bite!